TRADERS in Abingdon say free parking is likely to have increased footfall but they won’t know the full impact until the new year.

Drivers have been enjoying two hours free parking in Vale of White Horse District Council car parks in Abingdon, Wantage and Faringdon since December 9.

The move, which is expected to cost about £250,000, aims to attract more shoppers to boost the local economy.

Paul Townsend, Abingdon Chamber of Commerce president, said his sales on some days last week had gone up by about five per cent on last year.

He said: “There seems to be a lot more people in the town, especially during the day. And there are more people in the car parks from this time last year. I have seen a lot of them full. It does seem to be working.

“But the biggest test will be in January.”

Mark Thornton, of Mostly Books in Stert Street, said he had not noticed more people in the town but added: “I have been pleased with the way Christmas is panning out at the moment, and that might be a factor.”

Abingdon Town Council leader Sandy Lovatt added: “I have noticed a big difference but it is Christmas so it’s very hard to judge it at the moment. But I am seeing more and more people around.”